Paterson Mayor defends snow response as residents voice frustration over cleanup pace
PATERSON, New Jersey (WABC) -- Following Monday's blizzard, Paterson schools have reopened, but residents are voicing frustration over the pace of snow removal across the city.
Salt trucks have been traveling through problem areas in an effort to improve road conditions. Combined with sunshine and rising temperatures, most streets in Paterson have melted down to blacktop.
Mayor Andre Sayegh says he has been hearing from residents and insists the city has been responding to trouble spots, defending the overall snow removal effort.
"It's a lot of snow, and last time it was much colder so we couldn't move," one resident said. "Now it's melting on its own. As far as salt, no, the salt isn't doing it. We're doing it because we keep traveling."
Mayor Sayegh credited the warmer temperatures for helping speed up the melting process.
"We got hit harder this time, but what helped were the temperatures," Sayegh said. "We do need some cooperation from Mother Nature."
Many residents have dug their cars out of the heavy snow and placed markers to reserve parking spots.
The mayor is urging residents not to throw snow back into the streets or attempt to save parking spaces.
Crews continue working to clear remaining piles of snow. Officials are reminding motorists to use caution, as snowbanks may block visibility and some streets could still be icy.
----------
* Get Eyewitness News Delivered
* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts
Submit a tip or story idea to Eyewitness News
Have a breaking news tip or an idea for a story we should cover? Send it to Eyewitness News using the form below. If attaching a video or photo, terms of use apply.
